Josh Allen Clinches 2024 NFL MVP in Tight Race Against Lamar Jackson

2025-03-01

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has been named the 2024 NFL Most Valuable Player, edging out two-time MVP Lamar Jackson in a closely contested race. Allen, who led the Bills to their fifth consecutive AFC East title, received 27 first-place votes and 378 total points, narrowly surpassing Jackson, who garnered 22 first-place votes and 352 points. This marks Allen’s first MVP award, while Jackson, the 2019 and 2023 MVP, finished second despite a stellar season.

The voting results, released by the Associated Press, revealed a tight competition reminiscent of the 2016 MVP race between Matt Ryan and Tom Brady. Allen expressed surprise at the outcome, acknowledging Jackson’s deserving performance. “I was pretty surprised, given what we know about how the voting goes,” Allen said. “Lamar was very deserving of this as well.”

However, the decision has sparked debate among NFL analysts and former players. Hall of Famer and Ravens legend Jonathan Ogden criticized the selection, suggesting Allen won due to his lack of prior MVP awards rather than his performance this season. “Cause [Josh] is a great quarterback, he hadn’t won one, Lamar had two. And they’re like, ‘Let’s just give him one,’” Ogden said. He emphasized that Jackson outperformed Allen statistically, with more passing yards (4,172 vs. 3,731), rushing yards (915 vs. 531), and total touchdowns (45 vs. 41).

Despite the controversy, Allen’s MVP win highlights his exceptional leadership and contributions to the Bills’ success. The quarterback also received heartfelt congratulations from friends at Oishei Children’s Hospital, where he shared a message of gratitude in return. As the NFL offseason progresses, Allen’s achievement cements his status as one of the league’s elite players, while the debate over the MVP selection underscores the competitive nature of the award.